Stand Down

The original Stand Down for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment. Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being.

That is the purpose of the Stand Down for homeless veterans, and achieving those objectives requires a wide range of support services and time. The program is successful because it brings these services to one location, making them more accessible to homeless veterans.

In July 2002, the founders of Stand Down – Robert Van Keuren, Dr. Jon Nachison and Vietnam Veterans of San Diego – asked the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV) to become the “keeper of the flame” and provide national leadership for the movement. Since the first Stand Down in San Diego in 1988, the program has become recognized as the most valuable outreach tool to help homeless veterans in the nation today.

Stand Down Promising Practices
This Promising Practices Guide contains experience, guidance, and best practices condensed from 20 surveys completed by expert organizations that serve as the heartbeat of Stand Down events throughout the year. This guide offers a snapshot of how several successful HVRP grantees and their partners working in employment services have been able to develop and execute Stand Down events across the country.

Stand Down Dates and Timelines
Brief document describing the basic timeline for hosting a Stand Down, from responding to the Federal Register Notice to submitting reports.

After Action Report
Once your event has concluded please fill out the After Action Report. The information on this form is used by NCHV and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to compile an annual report on Stand Down programs that provide outreach and supportive services to homeless veterans. If you have questions or need assistance with this report, contact info@nchv.org or (202) 546-1969.

Your local VA Stand Down contact has instructions available to service providers regarding requesting DOD surplus for Stand Down events. Please contact them for further information and guidance.